Classic 4001 vs new 4003?

[Warhoo]

First, I am a Fender Jazz player so please excuse my Ric ignorance. I have the opportunity to trade one of my Fenders for either a 70's 4001 or a new 4003, which is a better choice. Obviously the 4001 is a classic but is the 4003 more playable? better built, sounding etc. Please help educate me about the Ric's because I am determined to own one of them.

[leftybass]

Good question....I have owned and played 4001's
for over 20 years and I have found very little difference between how a 4001 or 4003 comes off in terms of quality and playability. One thing you dont have today that you did before are some color choices that you had with the 4001...The product that RIC is making today is arguably 2nd to none...just fantastic. Technically the 4003 has the latest in pickup and neck reinforcment design. If you like the classic look and sound, the new "c" series may fit the bill. If you want an instrument with age and character,there are plenty of 'loved' 4001's out there!!!

[marcus]

I personally think Rickenbacker builds better basses now than they did in the seventies.
Stronger and easier to adjust toss ruds.
Pickups have higher output. Also a newer Rick probebly has less chance of warped necks dodgy tuners bad frets etc etc. On the other hand a new one could be abused in a few years while the old one was treated with lots of care.
In general though the new 4003 are probebly a safer bet. Good luck,

Marcus